A persistent cough in children can be worrying, especially during cold and flu season. One common cause is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV), a highly contagious infection that affects the respiratory tract. While many children experience mild cold-like symptoms, RSV can sometimes lead to more serious breathing problems, especially in infants and toddlers. Knowing how to identify RSV early helps you take the right steps at the right time, whether it’s home care, monitoring symptoms, or seeking medical help. Understanding the causes, key symptoms, and treatment options empowers you to protect your child during RSV season.
For same-day RSV testing, visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark. Our urgent care center specializes in treating patients of all ages. Appointments are not required– just walk-in today!
What Is Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) in Children?
Respiratory Syncytial Virus is a viral infection that targets the lungs and airways. It is one of the leading causes of respiratory illness in babies and young children, especially those under two years old. RSV usually spreads during the fall, winter, and early spring months when respiratory infections are common. While RSV often starts like a regular cold, it can progress into more serious conditions such as bronchiolitis or pneumonia in young children, premature infants, or children with weakened immune systems.
What Causes RSV in a Child?
RSV spreads through respiratory droplets released when an infected person coughs, sneezes, or talks. Children can also become infected by touching contaminated surfaces like toys, doorknobs, or tables, and then touching their nose, mouth, or eyes. Close-contact settings such as daycare centers, schools, and playgrounds increase the risk of exposure. Because the virus is highly contagious, even brief interactions can lead to infection. Infants who have frequent contact with older siblings or caregivers who have mild cold symptoms are also more likely to contract RSV.
What Are the Symptoms of RSV in a Child?
RSV symptoms can range from mild to severe. Early signs often resemble a common cold and may include:
- Runny or stuffy nose
- Dry cough
- Low-grade fever
- Sneezing
- Decreased appetite
As RSV progresses, children, especially infants, may develop more serious symptoms such as:
- Fast or laboured breathing
- Wheezing
- Chest retractions (skin pulling in between the ribs during breathing)
- Bluish lips or fingernails
- Unusual tiredness or irritability
A worsening cough, difficulty feeding, or breathing changes are key hints that the cough could be RSV rather than a simple cold.
How Is RSV Treated in a Child?
There is no specific antiviral cure for RSV, so treatment focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting your child’s breathing. Common approaches include keeping the child hydrated, using a cool-mist humidifier, performing nasal suctioning for infants, and giving fever-reducing medication if recommended by a doctor. In severe cases, especially when breathing becomes difficult, hospital care may be required for oxygen support or monitoring.
Get Walk-In RSV Testing & Symptom Management at AFC Urgent Care Clark
If your child shows signs of RSV, it’s important to visit urgent care. Early evaluation helps prevent complications, ensures proper treatment, and gives you peace of mind during peak RSV season. Come visit the walk-in clinic at AFC Urgent Care Clark for rapid illness testing and care. We can provide timely treatment to properly assess your symptoms, rule out other conditions, and recommend an appropriate course of action for recovery. Immediate care can help reduce the risk of complications, and speed up your healing process, ensuring you get back on your feet as quickly as possible. If you have any additional questions about RSV testing, or other services we provide, please contact us directly at (732) 301-5114.
